School Choice Week began in Vermont and across America this Sunday, with
the goal of raising awareness about the options that parents have for
their children's education.

The Week will feature 55 events and activities across the Green Mountain
State, including open house events at schools, school fairs, homeschool
information sessions, and other celebrations. In addition, a day of
events is planned on Wednesday, January 24 at the Vermont State House
and Capitol Plaza.

Nationwide, 32,240 events and activities are being organized to raise
awareness during National School Choice Week (Jan. 21-27, 2018), and
nearly 7 million Americans are expected to participate. It will be the
largest series of education-related events and activities in U.S.
history.

The Week brings attention to the different education environments that
are available for Vermont’s 122,000 children. For example, families in
Vermont can choose from traditional public schools, public magnet
schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. The
state's public school open enrollment policy is one of the nation's
broadest and most accommodating. The state also offers a private school
choice program and tuition-free, public online schooling.

“School Choice Week brings attention to the fact that there are
excellent choices right in our community. It raises awareness in our
community and empowers our families to talk with others about school
choice,” said Joanne Beloin, principal at Saint Paul’s Catholic School,
a private school serving 68 students in grades PK to 8 in Barton,
Vermont.

Celebrated since 2011, National School Choice Week is an independent
public awareness effort. The Week is nonpartisan and nonpolitical, and
it is not related to any legislative advocacy campaign.

“Vermont is home to some of America’s original school choice programs
and policies,” said Andrew Campanella, president of National School
Choice Week. “National School Choice Week is a time to reflect on this
rich history, and for parents to evaluate the school options available
for their children.”

National School Choice Week is an independent public awareness effort
designed to shine a spotlight on effective education options for
children. National School Choice Week celebrates all types of school
options, including traditional public schools, public charter schools,
public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and
homeschooling. Learn more at www.schoolchoiceweek.com
or highlight school choice on social media using hashtag #schoolchoice.